Four years after his exit, friends, family and colleagues, have again paid glowing tributes to the popular economist and capital market operator, Albert Egbaroghene Okumagba.

Okumagba, a former president, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, left an indelible mark on the world and had inspired many lives during his 56 remarkable years.

The occasion was the launch of a book, ‘Fine Wine:  The Super Confidence Logue’ by Uri Ngozichukwuka, a communication consultant, content entrepreneur, life coach, TV and Radio Presenter. She is the Chief Executive Officer of April Benjamin and Dawn communications limited. The book was to also mark Okumagba’s 60th posthumous birthday.

Speaking at the launch, Ngozichukwuka said the late financial guru was someone with much vigour and confidence that had so much to give.

She noted that the late economist was the first person to fire up her passion for writing, prophetically declaring that she is full of ideas that would soon translate into books.

The author, who stated that Okumagba was always pushing for her to embark on that journey at every occasion their path crossed, said: “Albert has a nickname for everybody; his nickname for me was Uri Country. He would always say, ‘Uri Country, where are your books? You have books all over you.’ Anytime he called, he always started with, ‘have you started writing? Where are those books? So, on December 9, 2018, I took that challenge and wrote a book.”  Now, one of her books is going to be used as part of the texts at the University of Porto.

According to the writer, the book was written as a tool to constantly remind people that confidence is a powerful asset that should never be outsourced or surrendered regardless of the circumstances.

Group Managing Director, FBN Holdings Plc, Nnamdi Okonkwo, said those who knew Okumagba can testify to his exceptional character, overwhelming confidence and can-do spirit. “He never believed any task was too difficult to accomplish. He was very ambitious and a deal that looked like it would never be done, he will find a structure for it. I am very happy that someone decided to write a book in his honour.

Okonkwo, who represented the Chairman of the event, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, commended the author for keeping the memory of the late financial expert alive.

Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, who was the keynote speaker, said the book should be on every shelf and be an inspiration for every Nigerian who wants to succeed.

Represented by Deputy Director, Securities and Exchange Commission, Mr John Briggs, Agama, described Okumagba as an individual whose contributions to the Nigerian financial sector, education system and nationalist ideas has left a lasting imprint on the nation’s history.

He said: “Albert rose to prominence through his exceptional cognitive ability, unwavering patriotism and bold efforts to unite Nigerians under a shared vision of progress and equity. He was celebrated for his unparalleled patriotism and optimism about Nigeria’s future. He dismissed pessimism and actively engaged in debate about nation building, often standing alone in his conviction. His encyclopedic knowledge of Nigeria’s social economic realities was matched by an unwavering belief in the nation’s potential for greatness.

“In the financial sector, his impact was profound. As the founder of BGL Plc, he provided financial advisory, corporate finance and asset management services.”

Agama commended the author for capturing Okumagba’s remarkable journey in “Fine Wine”, saying the work not only honour his memory but serve as an inspiration for future generations to pursue excellence, confidence and integrity.

Former Regional Senior Manager, West Market Area, PWC, Uyi Akpata, said the late financial expert was someone in whom he had so much trust, describing him as someone who likes to confront challenges and make a difference.

Group Managing Director/CEO, BGL Plc, Chibundu Edozie, said Okumagba was someone who knew his strengths and weaknesses, embracing pursuit of knowledge as a voracious reader. He said the man was always pushing others to invest in themselves and improve their capacity.

Chairman, event planning committee, Chuma Anosike, said one of the lessons from Okumagba is that people must ensure they’re knowledgeable about their subjects, saying a lot of people are full of blusters, but after scratching the surface there is no substance to them.

Anosike noted that Okumagba was also a role model for selfless service, who was not moved by money or material things but remained focused on his goals.

He said the book reminded him of some of the times they had together and the values. “He was confidence personified. He never believed anything was impossible and his confidence was also infectious.”

The book reviewer, Mfonobong Inyang, said it underscores how significant a role confidence plays in life’s journey; many at times it is the difference between greatness and mediocrity.
He said: “The idea of confidence as a signature of great people is critical because in life it is almost impossible to control the outcome of events but confidence can position a person to respond to situations with the needed attitude.

“Fine Wine; The Super Confidence Logue is Uri Ngozichukwuku’s attempt to capture important conversations that must be had by everyone desirous of greatness. She walks the reader through her thinking in the dark moments of her life and shares the backstory to what many would consider a success story in her personal and professional lives. It’s that kind of book you want to read before the beginning of a new year, a new project, a new relationship or simply a new you. It would help you have better internal conversations with yourself – something many people struggle to do.”

At the event, Odumagba’s wife, Emilia expressed appreciation to the author, friends, colleagues, who honoured her husband, saying their presence and prayers are very important and gives them a lot of comfort.

“He has touched a lot of lives. Your support and memories will help keep his spirit alive,” she said.

The event was well attended by friends, family and colleagues of the author and the late economist.